Defeat at Forest put pay to Villa’s slight resurgence. Will that be enough to propel them to victory over the current champions who have managed just one win in their last six league games? Hmm… Draw.
BRENTFORD vs NOTTINGHAM FOREST (1500)
Brentford are good at home. They’ve not once lost in the whatsitcalled Community Stadium – think of it as the Heathrow area – this season. Forest will visit hoping to climb, briefly, into third sport if they manage t take maximum points. Home win.
IPSWICH TOWN vs NEWCASTLE UNITED (1500)
It’s possible that the Barcodes, in 12th, have seen a corner turn in their fortunes. It’s also possible that they haven’t. Ipswich, meanwhile, remain a leading contender for the drop. Things are looking tough for the Tractor Boys. Away win.
WEST HAM UNITED vs BRIGHTON & HOVE ALBION (1500)
Our record against Brighton is less than outstanding. But for now, both sides go into this with two wins, two draws and two defeats in their last six. The trouble is that the Seagulls have five more points than us. We have to start adding a few more points to our tally if things are not to become uncomfortable. Looks like a tight game ahead. Draw.
CRYSTAL PALACE vs ARSENAL (1730)
Things look to picking up for Palace, but less so for Arsenal. Nonetheless, Arsenal are a stronger outfit and should take all points from this with ease. Away win.
SUNDAY
EVERTON vs CHELSEA (1400)
Chelsea could lead the Premier League when the final whistle blows at Goodison this afternoon. And Everton could easily end the day back in the bottom three. Chelsea are strong and have form on their side. Away win.
FULHAM vs SOUTHAMPTON (1400)
Having got the better of sort-of neighbours Brighton last week, Fulham are on a roll. Southampton, too, are on a roll, just not the kind of roll that anyone wants. Still, can they benefit from new manager bounce? No. Home win.
LEICESTER CITY vs WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS (1400)
Another two sides with new occupants of the boss’s seat. Fans of both will be asking themselves how long they will remain seated there. This will be a test for both, and a significant six-pointer. Draw.
MANCHESTER UNITED vs BOURNEMOUTH (1400)
Man U are another bunch of inconsistent so-and-sos. They’re one place above us and five above the drop zone. Yet there’s a ring of hope around that club. Bournemouth, meanwhile are in sixth. I remember watching them eek out a 1-1 draw with Barnet not so long ago. Funny how things change, innit? Home win.
TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR vs LIVERPOOL (1630)
The final Premier League fixture before Christmas gives Spurs an opportunity to help knock Liverpool from the summit. Can they do it? Who knows. Draw.
AVL v MCY
BRE v NFO
IPS v NEW
WHU v BHA
CRY v ARS
EVE v CHE
FUL v SOU
LEI v WOL
MNU v BOU
TOT v LIV
Happy Christmas to everyone. Be happy.
